5 Reasons Why Bayern Munich Will Beat Real Madrid in the Champions League

5 Reasons Why Bayern Will Triumph Over Real Madrid

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Many are disappointed that Real Madrid versus Bayern Munich is a semifinal in the Champions League as they are seen as the two favorites. Both teams are hoping to make the final in Lisbon. Two of the biggest clubs in Europe will collide in a little less than two weeks with a lot on the line. Bayern are hoping to become the first team to repeat as Champions League winners. Real Madrid is hoping to win its first title since 2002.

Real Madrid's Mentality

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Real Madrid's Mentality

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The mentality of Real Madrid does not seem positive at the moment. They looked to be running away with the La Liga title, but then dropped eight points in five games and are on the outside looking in. They barely advanced to this stage as an injury-riddled Dortmund squad pushed them to the brink this week. After the Champions League semifinal draw, Real Madrid director Emilio Butragueno said they wanted Bayern the least.

Cristiano Ronaldo May Not be 100 Percent

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Cristiano Ronaldo May Not be 100 Percent

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Real Madrid announced that Cristiano Ronaldo is suffering from a hamstring injury. They are hopeful that he will return for the Copa del Rey Final. However, a hamstring is tough to recover from as a footballer. The chances seem likely he will return for the Champions League match and it could come at the cost of missing a clash with Barcelona. The question will be if he is fully fit heading into the clash.

Pep's Tactical Adjustments

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Pep's Tactical Adjustments

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After a draw in the first leg with Manchester United, we reported here that Pep Guardiola had to change his tactics up front. He did and Bayern handled the second leg. Pep will have to change his tactics again to keep the ball in the midfield and use pressing forwards. Pressure on Real Madrid is what works and Pep will recognize what tactics must be used.

Defensive Liability

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Defensive Liability

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In the most recent match with Dortmund, Pepe and Sergio Ramos looked like liabilities. They will be pressed into turnovers as Bayern continue to work to get the ball back quickly. They could be challenged by Mario Mandzukic in the air while Thomas Muller and Mario Goetze challenge them with speed and crafty play. Arjen Robben has a tendency to move centrally with the ball, so the two defenders will need to be at their best.

Midfield Pressure

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Midfield Pressure

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Xavi Alonso has not been convincing in Champions League play. However, he rarely gets help from the forwards as Gareth Bale and Ronaldo are not known to track back defensively. The defensive play all over the field for Real Madrid could be the biggest issue. The Bayern midfield will use their aggression and athletic ability to pressure Alonso and others. Alonso's effort must be his best so he can win tackles and turn that into offense.